World Intellectual Property Organization

As one of 16 specialized agencies of the United Nation, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) says it is "dedicated to promoting the use and protection of works of the human spirit." That includes works in science, technology, and the arts, and both the content and design of this site are outstanding. A valuable resource for managers and professionals focused on innovation or research development, WIPO's site is structured clearly around four basic areas. "About WIPO" describes its mission and organizational charge, providing an Organigram, Annual Report, and Program and Budget. "About Intellectual Property" includes basic definitions of industrial property (patents, trademarks, industrial designs, geographical indications) and copyright and related rights. "News & Information Resources" contains an abundance of information. Highlights are WIPO Magazine (a monthly newsletter); "Intellectual Property Digital Library" (free databases of patent applications and a bibliographic database of articles from scientific and technical journals); "Recent News" and "Press Room" (covering current events pertaining to international intellectual property issues and WIPO; and a complete selection of WIPO documents. Finally, "Activities and Services" is wide-ranging review of such WIPO initiatives as the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center, and offers descriptions of WIPO activities in areas like biotechnology and e-commerce.